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Entry Level Machine Shop Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vitesse Systems

$20.91 - $24.04/hr

Support first piece / first article inspections for the machine shop * Perform inspections based on ... Ability to read and comprehend mechanical blueprints (training provided for entry-level candidates)

HP Products

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Tracy, CA

$39K - $53K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 5:00am-1 ... Setup and maintain machines in the shop for pipe fabrication * Accurately measure, record, and add ...

SUPPLY.com

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Tracy, CA

$39K - $53K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 5:00am-1 ... Setup and maintain machines in the shop for pipe fabrication * Accurately measure, record, and add ...

Quinn Company

Senior Shop Technician

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$47.60 - $60.71/hr

... entry level technician, Quinn can provide you with education and training to further your career ... assemble machines/components. Recondition/repair as required. • Work overtime as required by ...

Quinn Company

Senior Shop Technician

Whittier, CA · On-site

$47.60 - $60.71/hr

... entry level technician, Quinn can provide you with education and training to further your career ... assemble machines/components. Recondition/repair as required. • Work overtime as required by ...

Quinn Company

Senior Shop Technician

City Of Industry, CA

$47.60 - $60.71/hr

... entry level technician, Quinn can provide you with education and training to further your career ... Disassemble and assemble machines/components. Recondition/repair as required. Work overtime as ...

Pathway Group

Be Seen First

Entry Level Assembler

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

Maintain safe and effective use of all machine and hand tools as well as a safe work environment ... Dry fits and bond's structure using tooling and shop aids to control the critical surfaces and ...

eJam

TikTok Shop Coordinator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

This is the place where you'll see the entire machine - sourcing, product development, packaging ... About This Role This is an entry-level role. We're not looking for someone who has done this before ...

eJam

TikTok Shop Coordinator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

This is the place where you'll see the entire machine -- sourcing, product development, packaging ... About This Role This is an entry-level role. We're not looking for someone who has done this before ...

eJam

TikTok Shop Coordinator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

This is the place where you'll see the entire machine - sourcing, product development, packaging ... About This Role This is an entry-level role. We're not looking for someone who has done this before ...

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All JobsEntry Level Machine Shop JobsEntry Level Machine Shop Jobs in California

Entry Level Machine Shop information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do entry level machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine shop in California is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Machine Shop worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Machine Shop worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with calipers, micrometers, CNC machines, and blueprint reading is typically required, with OSHA safety training being a plus. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team help individuals stand out in this hands-on environment. These abilities ensure efficient production, quality workmanship, and a safe, collaborative shop floor.

How to be a machine operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level machine operator with no experience, focus on developing basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and safety awareness. Completing relevant training or certifications, such as OSHA safety courses or technical programs, can improve your chances and help you learn to operate machinery and tools effectively.

What are some typical tasks and responsibilities for someone in an entry level machine shop position?

In an entry level machine shop role, you can expect to support experienced machinists by setting up and operating basic machinery, performing routine maintenance, measuring and inspecting parts, and maintaining a clean work environment. You may also assist with loading raw materials, deburring finished pieces, and documenting production data. This hands-on position provides valuable exposure to a variety of tools, machines, and manufacturing processes, making it a solid foundation for developing advanced machining skills over time.

What is the difference between Entry Level Machine Shop vs Entry Level Machinist?

AspectEntry Level Machine ShopEntry Level Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, machine shops, production floorsManufacturing facilities, machine shops, production floors
Job FocusAssisting with machine setup, cleaning, and basic operationsOperating machines, measuring parts, and performing basic machining tasks
Common UsageEntry-level positions in machine shops or manufacturing plantsEntry-level roles requiring machine operation skills

Both roles are entry-level positions in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar credentials and work settings. An Entry Level Machine Shop typically involves assisting with various tasks in a machine shop, while an Entry Level Machinist focuses more on operating and measuring machines. Both serve as foundational roles for careers in machining and manufacturing.

Can I become a CNC machinist with no experience?

Entry level CNC machinist positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training and may prefer candidates with basic math skills and familiarity with manufacturing environments. Learning to operate CNC machines, understanding technical drawings, and obtaining certifications like the CNC Operator Certification can improve job prospects. Starting in an entry-level role allows gaining practical skills and advancing in the field.

What are entry level machine shop jobs?

Entry level machine shop jobs are positions designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in machining or manufacturing environments. These roles often involve operating basic machinery, assisting more experienced machinists, performing routine maintenance, and learning to interpret technical drawings. Entry level workers are usually trained on the job and may be responsible for tasks like measuring materials, finishing parts, and ensuring quality control. These positions are a great way to gain hands-on experience and develop skills necessary for advancement in the machining industry.

What qualifications do you need to work in a machine shop?

Entry level machine shop positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and the ability to read technical drawings. Some employers prefer candidates with familiarity with hand tools, measuring instruments, and safety procedures; technical training or certifications in machining can be advantageous. Prior experience is not always necessary but can improve job prospects.

How much is an entry level CNC?

Entry-level CNC operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location and industry. Starting salaries may increase with basic skills, certifications, and experience operating CNC machines and related tools.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Machine Shop jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Machine Shop job openings:
Entry Level Machine Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Shop job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,360 per year, or $18 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer II

Manufacturing Engineer II

Dexter Magnetic Technologies

Torrance, CA • On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Magnetic Component Engineering ("MCE"), a subsidiary of Dexter Magnetic Technologies ("Dexter"), manufactures permanent magnets and magnetic assemblies made to demanding customer specification in the aerospace / defense, semiconductor equipment, medical, and industrial end markets. MCE is based in Torrance, CA and operates one 48,000 square foot facility with 85 employees.
For more information on Magnetic Component Engineering, please visit: https://www.mceproducts.com/
Basic Purpose and Objective of the Position
The Manufacturing Engineer II supports production operations by developing, improving, and sustaining manufacturing processes. This role builds on entry-level machining experience and focuses on applying engineering fundamentals to CNC machining, tooling, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives. The engineer works closely with machinists, quality, and engineering teams to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
Major Responsibilities - reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:
  • Be a safety role model. Engage with employees, supervision, and management to create and promote a safe work environment. Always work first to engineer safety into our work processes.
  • Apply DMAIC and Lean/6SIGMA tools to identify defects/waste in the manufacturing process and eliminate root cause(s).
  • Support CNC machining operations (lathe, mill, or EMD machines) by assisting with process development, setup optimization, and troubleshooting
  • Create and maintain manufacturing documentation, including setup sheets, bills of materials (BOMs), routings, and work instructions
  • Assist in the selection and optimization of cutting tools, fixtures, and machining strategies
  • Support new product introduction (NPI) and engineering change implementation
  • Analyze production issues and assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions
  • Collaborate with Quality Engineering to ensure processes meet drawing, GD&T, and inspection requirements
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, and process capability
  • Assist with CNC program review and validation (editing support as needed; not primary programmer role)
  • Provide floor support to machinists and production personnel as required
  • Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and manufacturing standards
  • Actively engage with all of MCE to support our Lean Transformation, deploying Lean Tools to improve employee safety, processes and decrease cost. Problem solves gaps and redesign. Implement mistake-proofing concepts to prevent product defects.
  • Oversee the fabrication of models and perform tests to determine compliance to specification. Problem solves gaps and redesign. Implement mistake-proofing concepts to prevent product defects.
  • Analyze and design lean manufacturing cells using effective systems and simulation tools to optimize use of space, equipment, material and personnel.
  • Ensure vendors/subcontractors are manufacturing products according to product specifications. Ensure that all manufacturing product specifications are developed, and testing procedures are in place before utilizing vendors/subcontractors. Provide input and support during the selection process of new vendors.
  • Communicate with and provide technical expertise to; suppliers, customers, Quality, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Sales.
  • Assists with special projects and perform other related duties as assigned. Completes other tasks as assigned or required.

Essential Qualifications
Education, Experience & Certifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • Entry-level to intermediate machining experience (shop floor exposure, internship, or prior machinist role)
  • Basic understanding of CNC machining processes, tooling, and materials
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
  • Familiarity with standard manufacturing documentation and change control processes
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • 1-3 years of manufacturing or machining experience
  • Experience with CNC lathes and/or mills
  • Exposure to CAM software and CNC programming fundamentals
  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools
  • Experience with SolidWorks

Salary Range: $100,000-$105,000 + bonus
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical/Rx, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Basic Life/AD&D (includes coverage for dependents 100% Company paid), Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability (100% Company paid), Supplemental Life/AD&D, 401(k) with Company match, tuition assistance after 1 year, paid time off, and 11 paid holidays.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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